Hello, winter! After last year’s sunny and almost warm holiday season, it’s a pity to be back to business as usual in Alberta. Already, there have been car pile-ups in Edmonton and weather warnings for travelers, and the weather’s not likely to get any better until May. But while the snow may have arrived (or melted again already…thanks, chinooks), that doesn’t mean lawn care is over!

No more Fertilizing.

Somehow a myth about fertilizing late in the year always seems to go around, but it’s important not to fertilize grass that’s already dormant for the winter. Once the first snow or freeze has come and your grass has turned brown to sleep through the season, the time for fertilizing is over. This is also true for mowing. If you didn’t get your final mow in, it’s unfortunately too late now. (If your spouse doesn’t believe you, feel free to show them this article). But, next year you really should try to get the final fertilizing and mowing in. Cutting the grass extra short just before the first freeze helps to protect it from rodents, mildew, and disease.

Store Equipment and Toys.

It’s too cold to do yard work or play with whatever your kids left out over the summer anyways. Instead, take five minutes (or twenty) to make sure everything finds a home in the shed or the basement before these objects become completely frozen to the ground. The pressure of a soccer ball or rake all winter long won’t do your lawn any favours, and your yard will look tidier if everything is put away.

Don’t Walk on the Lawn.

We know, it’s challenging to not walk all over the yard to make snow angels, to build forts, or have a snowball fight. This is doubly true for families with kids who are itching to play in the snow. But, while we hate to be a grinch, walking on a snow covered lawn really isn’t good for it. Instead, take your family to the park to play. There’s a lot more space and snow, and your municipality will be used to tending to grass that gets a lot of abuse.

A lawn that receives excellent care all winter long will grow in faster and greener in spring. We know it can be a challenge to make sure everything is put away and not to walk over the beautiful, white blanket of snow just begging for someone to jump in it, but we promise your lawn will thank you come summer. If you need any advice about how to care for your yard or if you need an experienced team of snow removers to help you out this winter, give Five Star a call at (403) 203-4058 or request a quote online.